Slushy snow, slippery sidewalks, and that one guy wearing shorts way too soon — it can only mean one thing: spring break is around the corner.
While it’s tempting for kids to spend the week scrolling on social media or sleeping in until noon, why not make the most of it? Whether you’re staying in, exploring the city, or craving an adventure, we’ve got ideas to help you maximize the break.
So, you’ve officially reached the end of Netflix. Congratulations! If you’re in desperate need of fresh entertainment without spending, the Edmonton Public Library (EPL) has your back. With free access to thousands of movies on Kanopy, you can finally watch that one indie film your artsy friend won’t stop raving about. And if you’re feeling nostalgic, EPL’s physical collection of movies, music and books is just a library card away.
And if the semester has kept you busy with assisting last-minute projects and prepping for bake sales — it’s time to recharge. Second-hand puzzles and board games from local thrift stores will keep your brains working without reminding you of school. Or, if you want to get crafty, locally owned Off the Clock Studio offers take-home kits for all skill levels — just book a visit, order online, or catch it at one of its market days. Because nothing says relaxation like covering your dining table in paint.
Need to burn off some kid energy before they turn the living room into a trampoline park? Strathcona County’s Sportszone Drop-in is open March 30 at Millennium Place and Ardrossan Recreation Centre. Plenty of space to run, jump, and (hopefully) tire out before bedtime. Another option is Edmonton’s Play Rangers free weekly outdoor activities — fresh air, zero cost, and a solid chance at a quiet car ride home.
For a more contained energy burn, Drop-In Gym at Perfect Storm Athletics in West Edmonton offers open gym time every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon. It’s $8 per child (maximum $24 per family, with extra siblings at $4 each) and free for parents. Ages 12 months and up are welcome — because even toddlers need a place to climb that isn’t your kitchen table.
And for those more into epic storytelling than epic wipeouts, Spring Break Young Writers’ Camps are running at Highlands United Church in Edmonton (or online). Sessions run March 24 to 25 for Grades 4 to 6 and March 26 to 27 for Grades 6 to 9. Looking for the spotlight? Improv Spring Break Camps at Rapid Fire Theatre (March 24 to 28) offer five days of fast-paced, on-the-spot comedy. Programs are available for ages 6 to 18, so whether they’re natural performers or just looking to build confidence, they’ll leave with quick thinking skills — and probably a few new jokes to test out on you.
Go big or go… beyond city limits. Alberta’s famously has roadside attractions that are big, bold, and a little bit weird — just like your spring break plans should be. Hit the road and make a day of it, because sometimes the best part of an adventure is the journey itself. St. Paul’s UFO Landing Pad is waiting for any aliens who are tired of parking in space. It’s a great spot to snap a picture, and maybe even wonder if your next road trip will be with extraterrestrial company.
Over in Sylvan Lake, things are melting down — in the best way possible. Meltdown: Holi Celebration hits Centennial Park on March 22. Expect colour throwing at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 PM ($2 per color pack), plus Bollywood tunes, a dance party, and a Holi photo booth. And there’s henna art, face painting, and family activities — all the chaos with none of the cleanup.
Want to go from colourful chaos to cosmic calm? Hit up Hesje Observatory for some serious stargazing on Thursday nights ($15 per person, pay at the door). The digital telescope feed and the view from the observation deck make it the best spot to contemplate the universe — or, you know, just stare at the stars and wonder if aliens are observing you back. For a deeper dive, book a two-hour private stargazing session and feel extra fancy with zero light pollution.
